Heaven’s Metal speaks with Petra founder and guitarist Bob Hartman and longtime lead vocalist John Schlitt about the faith, music, and stories behind one of Christian rock’s most influential bands.

Few bands have shaped Christian rock as profoundly—or for as long—as Petra. Founded by guitarist and primary songwriter Bob Hartman in 1972, the band helped establish a place for uncompromising rock music within Christian culture. When former Head East vocalist John Schlitt joined Petra in 1986, his unmistakable voice helped launch another defining era in the band’s remarkable history.

In these two exclusive Heaven’s Metal video interviews, Tim Ristow from Heaven’s Metal sat down separately with Hartman and Schlitt to explore Petra’s legacy, each from their own perspective.

Together, these conversations offer a rare and sometimes poignant look at the creative partnership, personal convictions, challenges, and triumphs that have helped sustain Petra’s ministry and music for more than five decades.

Watch: John Schlitt Interview

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Watch: Bob Hartman Interview

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